The Windows.old folder is sacred
When we install a new version of windows 10 (for example, going from 1909 to 2004), the update wizard itself creates a copy of our current operating system in a folder called “Windows.old”. If something goes wrong, or we have problems both during the update and after updating, thanks to this folder we will be able to revert the changes, go back, and leave our PC as it was before updating.
The problem with this folder is that it can occupy up to 20 GB or 30 GB, a more than considerable size that many users cannot afford. And that leads them to delete the folder to free up space.
If we have installed the current build of Windows 11 on the PC we must know that we are using a development version, with potential bugs and problems that may even prevent us from working normally. Therefore, we must be especially careful with the Windows.old folder since, although it takes up a lot of disk space, it is our only exit ticket to return to Windows 10 without formatting or losing data.
Be careful, we must also take into account one thing: if we install the build Windows 11 Insider, and later we install a new one, we are left without the possibility of going back to Windows 10, since the content of this folder will be overwritten. In the same way that we will only have about 10 days to regret and uninstall Windows 11 or, otherwise, we can only move on.
Other tips to avoid problems
If you are thinking of trying Windows 10, in addition to taking special care with that folder to be able to revert the changes if there are problems, we can also take into account a series of tips that can help us mitigate these problems.
The first of these is that we must ensure that have enough free hard disk space. Windows 11 is quite demanding in terms of free space, and one of the main problems that we can find is precisely because of this. Therefore, if we are going to test this new OS, we recommend that you have at least 64 GB free on the SSD.
Of course, the new OS comes with Windows Defender, Microsoft’s antivirus. However, there are many users who prefer to install a standalone antivirus for more complete protection. Antiviruses have not yet been prepared for the new Windows 11, and, for this reason, they can give us many problems. Therefore, if you are going to test the new OS, it is best to let Windows Defender take care of its security.
Finally, little by little the programs are updated to be able to work in the new Windows 11, although the process is quite slow. Many outdated programs sure work without problems, but to avoid errors and other problems it is better to make sure have the latest versions of the software. Only then can we fully enjoy everything the new 11 has to offer.